Soen—perhaps the zaniest Zen master of modern times—was, among other things, an accomplished haiku poet, and this was one of his favorite verses. It is featured in his book “Ten Haiku of My Choice.” Soen often recalled the crimson leaves dancing in the twilight of the meditation hall at Ryutaku-ji in Japan, and he frequently brushed this poem. Here the character for dance forms a one-word barrier that is really moving.

There are more Soen Nakagawa poems on Terebess Asia Online. He might be my new favourite poet. Thanks to Kristjaan for introducing him to me.